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Blast targeting train kills dozens in southwest Pakistan
🇸🇬 Singapore /Conflict & Security

Blast targeting train kills dozens in southwest Pakistan

From CNA · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • A blast targeting a train carrying military personnel in Balochistan, Pakistan, killed at least 24 people and injured over 50.
  • The explosion occurred as the train, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, passed a signal.
  • The attack highlights the ongoing instability in Pakistan's impoverished Balochistan province, where separatists accuse the government of resource exploitation.

A devastating blast targeting a train carrying military personnel and their families in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province has killed at least 24 people and left more than 50 injured. The attack occurred on Sunday as the train was en route from the provincial capital Quetta to Peshawar.

Army servicemen were among the victims in the attack in the provincial capital Quetta, which left more than 50 people injured.

— Senior OfficialConfirming the casualties and the nature of the attack.

Officials reported that the explosion happened when an explosive-laden car struck one of the train carriages near Chaman Pattak in Quetta. The impact derailed a carriage, causing extensive damage. Images from the scene showed a mangled train car on its side, with rescuers and security forces navigating the wreckage to aid survivors. Blood-soaked victims were seen being carried away on stretchers.

The military personnel were reportedly traveling to celebrate the upcoming Eid holiday. Balochistan, Pakistan's largest and poorest province, has long been a site of unrest. Baloch separatist groups frequently accuse the Pakistani government of exploiting the region's rich natural gas and mineral resources without adequately benefiting the local population.

The train was passing a signal at Chaman Pattak in Quetta when an explosive-laden car hit one of the carriages that resulted in a big blast.

— OfficialDescribing the mechanics of the explosion.

This attack underscores the persistent security challenges in Balochistan, a region characterized by its economic underdevelopment and a history of separatist movements. The targeting of a train carrying military personnel and their families suggests a deliberate act aimed at disrupting peace and security in the province.

The army personnel were travelling to celebrate the Eid holiday, which is due to start on Tuesday.

— OfficialProviding context on the passengers' destination and purpose of travel.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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